Microsoft has unveiled a $1 million initiative aimed at training one million Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills over the next two years. The announcement, made during an event in Lagos, highlights Microsoft’s growing presence in Africa’s AI ecosystem and its commitment to equipping young Nigerians with skills that are ready for the future.
The training program will be implemented in partnership with Tech4Dev, Data Science Nigeria, and other key stakeholders. Microsoft executives emphasized AI’s transformative impact on Africa’s workforce, framing the initiative as a step toward preparing Nigerians for the jobs of the future. “We are thrilled to bring our mission to life by investing in Nigeria’s talent. Our goal is to empower every person and organization to achieve more, and this investment is a step towards ensuring that Nigerians are equipped to harness the opportunities presented by the fifth industrial revolution, which AI drives,” said Olatomiwa Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana.
Williams also noted that Microsoft has previously collaborated with Nigerian AI startups and has already reached four million Nigerians through its digital skills programs.
Despite the program’s ambitious scale, concerns have been raised about its feasibility. With $1 million allocated to train one million people, this equates to just $1 per participant, prompting questions about the depth and quality of the training.
Microsoft has yet to fully disclose the training curriculum, leaving uncertainty over whether it will focus on introductory AI awareness, hands-on technical training, or industry certifications.
Microsoft is not the only global tech company investing in Nigeria’s AI sector. In October 2024, Google announced a ₦2.8 billion ($1.7 million) grant to support AI talent development in Nigeria, as part of its $5.8 million digital skills commitment across Sub-Saharan Africa.
While Google’s program emphasizes AI research and startup development, Microsoft’s approach appears focused on mass upskilling. However, despite its broader scope, Microsoft’s funding is significantly lower than Google’s.
Microsoft sees AI as a key economic driver for Africa, with the potential to contribute $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP and $1.5 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2050. “An IDC study found that for every $1 invested in AI, businesses could expect a $3.5 return,” said Lilian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa. “It’s crucial that we align economic growth, business returns, and upskilling opportunities.”
While Microsoft presents this initiative as a social investment, it also aligns with its strategic business goals. A larger pool of AI-trained professionals could drive adoption of Microsoft’s AI tools and cloud services, benefiting the company in the long run. Additionally, as AI adoption grows in Africa, Microsoft stands to gain from a skilled workforce that could become future customers, employees, or technology partners.
